Devi Nair
Let’s get it out there: the mystery sparkles in this installment. Maureen finding herself wrapped up in yet another local murder feels right at home, especially with the town’s ghosts popping up at just the right (or wrong) times. The dog Finn steals plenty of scenes, especially with his hilarious misunderstandings—“vet” as “validate”? A+ canine comic relief. The ghosts and the inn’s lively elderly residents, their quirks and advice bring heart and laughter to every chapter, making it feel like settling into your favorite recliner with friends who just happen to be dead (and very opinionated).
But let’s talk about that central romance. Maureen and Ted are engaged but generate the chemistry of two polite coworkers at an awkward holiday party. For all the emotional depth layered into the Haven House mysteries, the romance consistently falls flat, never really convincing as a swoony or even comfortably warm pairing. Still, the supporting cast more than picks up the slack: detective Frank, with his bulldog (sometimes literally) approach, cracks me up, and the sleuthing ghosts never let the plot slow down for long. The setting—half sunny Florida, half haunted getaway—remains its own kind of magic, and the parade of eccentric seniors makes every scene shine.
Originally posted at www.viewsshewrites.com.
Let’s get it out there: the mystery sparkles in this installment. Maureen finding herself wrapped up in yet another local murder feels right at home, especially with the town’s ghosts popping up at just the right (or wrong) times. The dog Finn steals plenty of scenes, especially with his hilarious misunderstandings—“vet” as “validate”? A+ canine comic relief. The ghosts and the inn’s lively elderly residents, their quirks and advice bring heart and laughter to every chapter, making it feel like settling into your favorite recliner with friends who just happen to be dead (and very opinionated).
But let’s talk about that central romance. Maureen and Ted are engaged but generate the chemistry of two polite coworkers at an awkward holiday party. For all the emotional depth layered into the Haven House mysteries, the romance consistently falls flat, never really convincing as a swoony or even comfortably warm pairing. Still, the supporting cast more than picks up the slack: detective Frank, with his bulldog (sometimes literally) approach, cracks me up, and the sleuthing ghosts never let the plot slow down for long. The setting—half sunny Florida, half haunted getaway—remains its own kind of magic, and the parade of eccentric seniors makes every scene shine.
Originally posted at www.viewsshewrites.com.